Tallinn temporarily moves Ukrainian flag at Freedom Square onto scaffolding
Due to upcoming renovation work, Tallinn is moving the Ukrainian support flag from the building at Freedom Square 10 onto scaffolding; it will be reinstalled if the war in Ukraine has not ended by the time renovations are completed.
The City of Tallinn will soon begin restoring the façade and canopy of the building located at Freedom Square 10. As a result, the Ukrainian support flag currently displayed on the building will be temporarily relocated to the scaffolding for the duration of the work.
Deputy Mayor Tiit Terik, responsible for city property, told ERR that a contract with the construction company Aruna Ehitus OÜ has been signed, and work is expected to start shortly and be completed by early February next year. The restoration, designed by architect Elmar Lohu, aims to preserve the building's historical appearance and original materials as much as possible, using a minimally invasive approach. "Often stone by stone," Terik explained.
The Ukrainian flag was installed as part of a civic initiative supported by private donors. The Property Department has coordinated with the installer, and a solution has been agreed upon. After the renovation, the flag will be reinstalled on the building's façade if the war in Ukraine has not ended by then.
In addition to aesthetic improvements, the work will enhance safety: the entire façade will be inspected, loose elements repaired, and all panels given additional fastenings to prevent collapse. Tenants can continue using the premises, but temporary restrictions and disruptions are expected. Entrances on the square-facing side will be directed through protective tunnels. The exact start date will be announced once the flag attachment to the scaffolding is finalized. The total cost of the restoration is €475,000.
